Kissaten Gives Good Reason to Indulge

Two weeks into the new year, and I’m sure most of you are still holding on to diet-related resolutions. I, of course, quickly succumbed shortly after downing a celebratory glass of champagne at midnight, prompting my stomach to beg for just one more musubi.

I’m not here to provide moral support — please, this column is called Who’s Counting?, after all.

But luckily for those who persist with their picky eating, Kissaten Coffee Bar continues to offer its cafe-inspired fare, which means there’s something for everyone.

Back by popular demand is Crab Cake Salad ($12.50).

“Crab Cake Salad is a returning special,” says senior partner Neysa Taba. “So it’s one of the more requested items that we bring it back every so often.”

Three crab cakes are placed atop a bed of organic greens — mixed with corn, cucumber, shaved onions and grape tomatoes — doused with a creamy lemon herb dressing. The salad is then topped with a spicy aioli, which adds a little kick to the flavor profile.

For something a little more decadent, Blueberry Cheesecake ($3.50) features a classic cheesecake made with a graham cracker crust, cream cheese, butter and other ingredients. It is topped with blueberries and a delicious blueberry sauce. Taba recommends that diners try this now, if you haven’t already, as it’s not a regular menu item.

A more recent delight is Chocolate Mousse with Caramelized Bananas ($5.50), featuring chocolate mousse garnished with toasted walnuts and brownie crumbles.

The new year also has brought some exciting news for the eatery: Kissaten is expanding its enterprise with a location in Waterfront Plaza, set to open next month. Kissaten will continue to offer breakfast and lunch at its new establishment, with hopes of transforming it into a sit-down restaurant in the evening, complete with cocktails and happy hour options. Kissaten also will revamp the menus for both locations.

“The Piikoi location and the new location will basically have the same menu with the exception of daily specials,” says Taba.

Don’t forget: in addition to its cuisine, Kissaten continues to serve tea and coffee 24 hours daily — a bonus for anyone stopping in to indulge at any hour.

Kissaten Coffee Bar

88 Piikoi St.
593-1200
Open 24 hours
kissatencafe.com